Beauty: Hot-weather hair care

Wednesday

May 20, 2009 at 12:01 AMMay 20, 2009 at 8:21 PM

You’re ready for summer, but what about your hair?

Summertime can do a number on your hair. Much like your skin, hair can fall victim to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Add the stress of chlorine, humidity, wind and saltwater, it’s easy to see why summer can be damaging to your locks.

Summertime can do a number on your hair. Much like your skin, hair can fall victim to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Add the stress of chlorine, humidity, wind and saltwater, it’s easy to see why summer can be damaging to your locks.

Women with curly hair know what a hindrance humidity can be. A cascade of long curls can quickly become a mass of frizz when the weather turns. Some shampoos can be drying, so use one that is specially designed for curly hair. Leave-in conditioners help maintain moisture and prevent the frizz caused by sun and humidity.

Applying a layer of conditioner before entering salty or chlorinated water can protect your hair from damage before it happens. Try wetting your hair with regular tap water before a swim to add another barrier against damaging elements. Rinse with soda water or baking soda after a swim.

Coarse strands

Coarse or wiry hair can be difficult to tame under the best conditions. Add the stress of sun and water, and you’ll have an even harder time. Your hairstyle is your best line of defense: Consider a simple, easy-to-care-for do and have it trimmed frequently to take care of any dead or split ends.

Also, look for products such as relaxing balms that are cream-based and humidity-resistant. To keep your locks from getting dried out, shampoo less often and use products with natural ingredients such as shea butter, which will maintain moisture and soften your hair.

Straight & thin

Baby-fine hair is especially fragile in the summer months. Sun can make your hair feel brittle, and water can cause discoloration. But with the natural sleekness of fine hair, leave-in conditioners and other moisturizers can give your locks an oily look. Instead, try natural remedies such as vinegar diluted with water, which will restore the pH balance of your hair. Or use a clarifying shampoo, which will wash away all the dirt and deposits that build up.

If you have blonde, thin hair that is prone to getting that greenish tint from too much time in the pool, baking soda or lemon juice can help remove discoloration. Or try a shampoo specifically formulated for swimmers.

Thick tresses

It might seem like your long, thick locks can handle just about anything. But think hair is just as susceptible to the elements as any other type.

Thick hair can dry out quickly and leave you with a mop of split ends, so it’s especially important for you to rinse your hair after every swim at the beach or in your neighborhood pool. Some conditioners have honey, which is a natural moisturizer that cleanses, protects and adds shine.

You might find windy weather leaves you with a tangled nest. Find a good hat or scarf to wear in these conditions so you’re not breaking your hair later as your try to brush it out. Hats also make for good sun protection for all hair types.

Wavy mane

Natural waves can be beautiful when sleek and healthy, but after the forces of summer, the frizz takes over. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the case if you properly care for your tresses.

Similar to women with ultra-curly hair, your biggest concern for the summer will be avoiding frizz. When shopping for shampoo, look for products meant for dry hair. Don’t brush you hair too much, and whenever possible, air dry instead of blow dry.

You might notice that summer humidity makes your waves curlier. Consider using a product that will amplify and accentuate the curls. If you use styling products, look for those that have frizz control and humidity-resistant properties.